Finding Better Auto Service

A spare tire is an essential part of every automobile you will ever own, but often it is the most ignored. It is really the best friend you may have if you are on a deserted road and one of the four tires on your vehicle goes flat. How you pay attention to it can mean the difference of simply changing them or walking for miles to purchase another one or have the spare repaired. Here are a few pointers for your ignored companion.

Full-Size Spares

Your spare has to be the same size as the other wheels to fit properly on your car. Since 2007, about 64 models, a decrease of approximately 49% of the new automobiles no longer have the same size tires. There is an exception for larger SUVs and trucks that will have the same size, which is an advantage because you can take your time to repair the flat.

Temporary Spares

Donuts, as they are called, stole the market in 2014 and are found in approximately 52% of those new vehicles. The temporary spare takes up less of the trunk space and is much lighter when it is time to change a flat. However, these donuts should not be driven to speeds more than 55 mph, and only for a short distance.

Run-Flat Tires

Some tires are equipped with no spare but have reinforced sidewalls that allow the tire to operate with very little pressure or none. Once the tire pressure is lost, a tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sends a message that the tires are below specifications and triggers the run-flat mode. You can continue driving up to 50 miles but should not exceed 50 mph until you can locate a repair station.

This tire will eliminate the dangerous stopping if you are in heavy traffic or a bad section of town where you don't feel safe. Unless the tire is marked as non-repairable, it can also be repaired. If it needs to be replaced; they are usually more expensive than a standard type tire. You may also have difficulty locating one if you are not close to a larger city.

One major disadvantage is the stiffer/heavier riding performance. Your fuel economy may not be as good because they have more rolling resistance. Since 2007, 25 models have begun using them, showing an increase of 156%, but are only standard features in 12% of the newer automobiles. Sports cars were the traditional model that used them, but now some of the luxury cars with sportier tendencies also use them.

Now you understand the differences of what types of tires are offered for your vehicle. It can be the differences you may need to understand what is needed in a spare tire. It will also depend on what areas you travel in most of the time as to what type you will use in your vehicle. Remember, the tire in the trunk should also be occasionally checked to be sure it has not gone flat. It would be a dilemma if you need it and it is of no use in your emergency.

About Me

After trying in vain to repair my car on my own, I realized that it might be in my best interest to talk with a professional. I started looking around for an auto service business that I felt comfortable with, and a friend told me about this great business downtown. Before I took my car in, I went to the business and talked with the professionals about their process, auto insurance partners, and their personal opinions about automotive work. I was able to find an incredible place that I felt completely comfortable entrusting with my car. Check out this website to learn how to find a better auto service.